Connecting the arts, fostering collaboration and building community.
Calendar courtesy of The Dirt.
There are several other great resources for finding arts and culture events, exhibits, performances, and other creative activities in the Davis area:
Davis Enterprise | UC Davis Arts & Entertainment | YoloArts | Visit Yolo
JAN 6 THRU FEB 26. PENCE GALLERY. Features “tiny” works of art—modest-sized pieces limited to 5” x 7”. Various local & regional artists were invited to display their small but spectacular creations, including Valentina Arenas, Tamsen Armstrong, Karen Burns, Deziree Dizon, Jim Darke, and Amy Vidra, among many others. Their works are personal, intimate & brimming with the tiniest of details. Tues-Sun, 11:30a–5p. Closed Mondays. ArtAbout reception.
JAN 11 THRU FEB 26. JOHN NATSOULAS CENTER FOR THE ARTS. Showcases Bulwinkle’s mastery of color & form in both two & three dimensions throughout the last 5 decades. On display are a selection of his woodcuts & screen prints, including several from his time at the SF Art Institute. Bulwinkle’s flamboyant ceramic works from graduate school will also be featured, as well as papier-mache works that once decorated the walls of his iconic Manilla St. House, a towering steel assemblage sculpture built around a modest townhouse that became a landmark in Oakland from 1975–1991. Recent cut-steel works painted with colorful enamel will also be featured. In addition, Natsoulas presents “Freedumb,” a new 18-foot steel piece by Bulwinkle, installed on the gallery façade. Reception Jan. 13, 7p.
JAN 23 THRU APR 23. UC DAVIS DESIGN MUSEUM. Showcases the colorful & imaginative footwear created by Los Angeles-based shoe designer Chris Francis. His work combines global shoemaking traditions & techniques, with references to the built environment such as industrial design & brutalist architecture as well as 20th-century art movements & punk rock. Opening reception Jan 24 @ 6:30p. Gallery open weekdays, 12p–4p. Free
FEB 3 THRU APR 4. McDaniels is a visual artist, teacher, muralist, community activist. She is the founder & Executive Director of The Sojourner Truth African Heritage Museum in Sacramento.
FEB 4 THRU MAR 3. LOGOS BOOKS. “A little bit of Davis, a lot of California,” plein air & studio oil paintings. Fess-Uecker’s work has been shown in numerous juried shows & in the galleries in the many states in which she has resided. She has a strong passion for color dynamics & continues to study color theory with oil painter & colorist Elio Camacho. ArtAbout reception.
FEB 10 THRU APR 2. PENCE GALLERY. Each year, the California Art Club (est. 1909) holds a juried exhibition promoting artists who follow in the tradition of realism & craftsmanship established by the Club’s founders. This year, the Pence will display the Club’s juried exhibit of figurative paintings by select CAC artists, as juried by master painter Dan Schultz. Reception Feb 10.
WINES IN TANDEM. A festive weekend celebrating the new wine shop & tasting room – a new member of the Davis and downtown communities. $15 tastings & 15% everything off all weekend. Fabulous Friday, Sparkling Saturday, & Sunday Funday 12p–5p.
MONDAVI CTR. Yamato, one of the premiere Taiko ensembles in Japan, celebrates their 30th Anniversary with a new production Hinotori: The Wings of Phoenix. This new show captures all of Yamato’s virtuosity, strength, spirit & sheer endurance. Yamato has given over 3500 performances in 54 countries, bringing their spirit, enthusiasm & abundant joy to over 8 million fans, young and old. 2p. $12.50–$65
PLAYFIELDS PARK. Now well into its third decade as a local running tradition, the race—celebrating its 40th annual running—also includes a 10K and a 5K run & mile, half-mile & quarter-mile “races” for kids. Largely fast & flat & run entirely on paved surfaces along the city streets of Davis. Starts begin 8a. $27–$72
DAVIS PHOENIX COALITION. The Davis Queer Teen Group hosts a visit from California Transcends. This meeting will honor the struggles and victories of the black queer community. 6p. Free
ODD FELLOWS HALL. Classic Military Comedies is the theme for this year’s film fest. Local film critic Derrick Bang will introduce each selection. Feb 19: I Was a Male War Bride (1949)—One of director Howard Hawks’ best screwball comedies. After marrying an American lieutenant (Ann Sheridan) with whom he has been assigned to work in post-war Germany, a French captain (Cary Grant) attempts to work the system in order to accompany her back to the States, under the terms of the War Bride Act. Feb 26: The Russians Are Coming, The Russians Are Coming (1966) — A kinder, gentler war comedy & a sleeper hit these days. A Russian sub commanded by Alan Arkin runs aground off a sleepy coastal New England community, where—upon discovering this—pacifist Carl Reiner & his wife (Eva Marie Saint) attempt to conceal these “invaders,” who want only to repair the sub & go home, from their hawkish neighbors. Oscar nominations for Best Picture, Actor (Arkin), Script & Editing. M.A.S.H. (1970) will conclude the series on March 5. The Odd Fellows bar, with wine, beer, mixed drinks & soft drinks is open before & during the film. Popcorn is always free. Live music from Rene Martucci & Richard Urbino (“Cold Shot”) before the film. Doors 6:30p, Movie 7p. Free
CAPAY VALLEY. The official day of the 108th Almond Festival. Featuring restaurant and business vendor goods, music and car show.
ONLINE. A hybrid event with four days of virtual workshops followed by state-wide in-person gatherings. Admission is on a sliding-scale & provides access to all events. Sun-Wed 8:30a–6p, Thurs 8:30 a–3p, Fri 10a–2p. $11.18–$204.79
EXPLORIT SCI CTR. Visit Explorit Rocks! an exhibit about rocks, fossils & crystals. A fun science activity or craft is included with admission every weekend. Enjoy a beautiful pollinator garden & the surrounding Mace Ranch Park. 10a–2p. Free for under 2 yrs/General $5
Hands-on art program. Experiment with all sorts of techniques & mediums. Exercises inspired by this season’s shows—Mike Henderson: Before the Fire, 1965-1985; the introspective abstractions of Loie Hollowell: Tick Tock Belly Clock; & the whimsical dogs in Roy De Forest: Habitats for Travelers. Sat & Sun, 12p–4p. Free
DAVIS CARDS & GAMES. Receive professional guided painting instruction & create a beautiful piece of art with us! 12p–2p. $75
NEW HARMONY COMMUNITY ROOM. A United States Chess Federation tournament open to scholastic players of all ages and abilities. Includes lecture, round-robin tournament, prizes & pizza. Advance registration is required. 1p–5p.
WOODLAND OPERA HOUSE. Set in the French capital in the wake of World War II, An American in Paris tells the romantic story of a young American soldier, a beautiful French girl & an indomitable European city—each yearning for a new beginning in the aftermath of international conflict. Inspired by the Academy-Award winning 1951 film, the new stage musical features a ravishing score by George & Ira Gershwin & incredible dance sequences. The show’s timeless musical numbers include, “I Got Rhythm,” “The Man I Love,” “Shall We Dance,” & more. Fri & Sat 7:30p, Sun 2p. $9–$30
TROKANSKI DANCE STUDIO. Continues the collaborative process with local choreographers, visual artists, musicians & poets, funded in part, by the Davis Arts & Culture Grant Fund of the Yolo Community foundation, an affiliate of the Sacramento Region Community Foundation. Produced by the PTDT, this year several performance pieces will be created from art work by local artists. The performance includes a short lecture/demonstration of art concepts that different mediums share, followed by pieces in performance. Local artists who are participating in the event include Choreographers: Ann Marie Dragich, Erin Dunning, Taylor Herrera, Tasé & Pamela Trokanski. Visual Artists include: Parto Aram, Analisa Bevan, Robin Lee Carlson, Joan Jarvis & Binuta Sudhakaran. Musicians include: Meri Superak & Hank Lawson. Poets: Julia Levine, Allegra Silberstein & Kari Wergeland. Under 12 are free, but need a ticket & accompanying adult. Sat 7p–8p, Sun 2p–3p. $10
ONLINE. A hybrid event with four days of virtual workshops followed by state-wide in-person gatherings. Admission is on a sliding-scale & provides access to all events. Sun-Wed 8:30a–6p, Thurs 8:30 a–3p, Fri 10a–2p. $11.18–$204.79
CRUESS HALL. Branwen Okpako, associate professor of cinema & digital media, has adapted Helon Habila’s The Chibok Girls into an experimental documentary, Return to Chibok. The film re-enacts the journey to visit those left behind after the shocking kidnapping of 276 girls from Chibok Girls School (Nigeria) in 2014.
Screened by the Center for the Advancement of Multicultural Perspective on Social Sciences, Arts & Humanities (CAMPSSAH). Actor Wale Ojo plays Habila alongside the community in Gombe State, who re-enact the original interviews. Reception to follow. 5p. Free
VILLAGE HOMES COMMUNITY CTR. Free concert featuring Katalysst, a folk rock duo with a progressive message and powerful sound.
All skill levels welcome. Rain or shine, every Tues @ 8a. Don
ONLINE. A hybrid event with four days of virtual workshops followed by state-wide in-person gatherings. Admission is on a sliding-scale & provides access to all events. Sun-Wed 8:30a–6p, Thurs 8:30 a–3p, Fri 10a–2p. $11.18–$204.79
Practice your moves from 8:30–9:30a. All levels and ages welcome. Pricing varies based on membership status and number of classes purchased.
All levels / all ages dance-cardio party-yo! Join the happy, healthy bod squad! Zero judgment, 100% positive vibes. Nonmembers: One class $15 / Ten classes $100 (Stonegate Club members are eligible for a discount) YEAR-ROUND: 9:00AM Tuesdays @ Stonegate Club OUTDOOR CLASS 919 Lake Blvd....
ARBORETUM. Take a mindful break & enjoy nature! Collage with pre-pressed plants while gazing at views of the Arboretum Waterway & relaxing under the branches of heritage trees. 11a–2p.
STEPHENS DAVIS BRANCH LIBRARY. Mother Goose on the Loose is an award-winning early literacy program for toddlers (ages 2-3) & their grown-ups. It combines music, movement, rhymes & books to help young children develop language skills, social & emotional skills, general knowledge about the world & a love of learning. 11a–11:30a, Free
MONTGOMERY BRANCH DAVIS LIBRARY. Celebrate Valentine’s Day & paint with us! Enjoy music, light refreshments and a snack while you paint! ¡Celebra San Valentín y pinta con nosotros! Disfruta de música, refrescos y un aperitivo mientras pintas. 6p–7p. Free
STAMBUSKY STUDIOS. Release, recharge & recenter by gifting yourself 90 minutes of intuitive, inspired, mindful movement with a welcoming local community. Discover the special alchemy that occurs at the intersection of mindfulness, movement & music. No dance experience is needed. All are welcome. Guided by Teresa Hooker, PsyD. 4th Tuesdays, 7:30p–9p. Don/$20
AVID READER. A monthly no-stress, safe space for romance aficionados, amateurs & everyone in between. February’s picks are Get a Life, Chloe Brown, by Talia Hibbert, and Party of Two, by Jasmine Guillory. Read one or both. Note: Adult romance novels may contain mature content. RSVP online or in-store. 8p–9:30p. Free
JOHN NATSOULAS GALLERY. An exhibition celebrating Women’s History Month through both historic & contemporary pieces. Showcases influential women who have pioneered artistic movements & shaped the media throughout Northern California, highlighting their tenacity & artistic legacies.
GALLERY 1885. The work of artist Michael Rowcen on display March 1—March 31st.
ONLINE. A hybrid event with four days of virtual workshops followed by state-wide in-person gatherings. Admission is on a sliding-scale & provides access to all events. Sun-Wed 8:30a–6p, Thurs 8:30 a–3p, Fri 10a–2p. $11.18–$204.79
Annual State of the City Address Join us for our annual State of the City Address on Wednesday, March 1st 10:30 AM – 12PM Free for all to attend this virtual session!
SPORK FOOD HUB. Weekly farm stand at the Cannery. Market items include: local produce from family farms, pasture raised pork, honey, jam and freshly milled flour. 2—6p
CENTRAL PARK. Visit the market each week to purchase local produce & artisan goods. Every Wed, 3p–6p & every Sat, 8a–1p.
Bring your own mat and other equipment from 6–7p for a beginner-friendly yoga class. Call or text Micky Lal at 707.999.3016 to reserve a spot. Donations encouraged
First pint is full price, but you get to keep the glass—every pint after that night is 50% off. Ask the bartenders when you arrive. Every Wed, 8p to close.
JOHN NATSOULAS CENTER FOR THE ARTS. First & third Thursdays. Each reading contains two featured poets followed by an open mic. 7p. Free
ONLINE. A hybrid event with four days of virtual workshops followed by state-wide in-person gatherings. Admission is on a sliding-scale & provides access to all events. Sun-Wed 8:30a–6p, Thurs 8:30 a–3p, Fri 10a–2p. $11.18–$204.79
All levels / all ages dance-cardio party-yo! Join the happy, healthy bod squad! Zero judgment, 100% positive vibes. Nonmembers: One class $15 / Ten classes $100 (Stonegate Club members are eligible for a discount) YEAR-ROUND: 9:00AM Tuesdays @ Stonegate Club OUTDOOR CLASS 919 Lake Blvd....
WESTWOOD PARK. Morning stories & songs every 1st & 3rd Thursday, organized by Yolo County Library. For ages 3-6. Weather Permitting. 12p.
RECITAL HALL, ANN E. PITZER CENTER. Percussionist & lecturer, Christopher Froh, specializes in the creation of new music through critically acclaimed performances & dynamic lectures. Program, includes Javier Alvarez, Philipe Manoury, Chris Froh, & Steve Reich. 12:05p–1p.
STEPHENS DAVIS BRANCH LIBRARY. Free to people who generally make $69,000 or less, persons with disabilities, the elderly & limited English speakers. Appointments can be scheduled online, or walk-ins welcome until an hour before closing. 4p–8p. Free
MANETTI SHREM MUSEUM. An evening showcasing student expression, from zines to live screen printing. Meet student groups who embody Mike Henderson’s legacy of community service & see the exhibition “Mike Henderson: Before the Fire, 1965-1985.” 4:30p–7p.
ZOOM. Ancient Bypass with Mitchell Frank Van Hecke. 5p–7p. Free
UNIVERSITY CREDIT UNION. UC Davis Men’s Basketball take on UC Santa Barbra. Tickets available online. 6p. $7–$22
MAIN THEATER, WRIGHT HALL. An immersive theatre work inspired by (co-director) Vita Tzykun’s experience as a Ukrainian refugee. Explores subjects of home; belonging; heritage, language & cultural identity; stability & chaos; separation; grief; & hope. Showings from 6:30p–7:30p, & 8:30p–9:30p. $4–$8
ODD FELLOWS LODGE. Expect boogie woogie cheating songs, love-lamenting ballads, rockabilly country bops, & chicken pickin’ guitar solos from Miller & his country band. Open dance floor all night. All ages welcome. Donations encouraged. 7p. Free
STEVENS DAVIS BRANCH LIBRARY. Beginning the first Friday of each month, Friends of the Davis Library hosts a three day sale in the Blanchard Room. On Sundays fill a bag for $10. Fri 12p–7p, Sat 10a–5p, & Sun 10a–3p.
PENCE GALLERY. A joint exhibit featuring the work of painter Toni Rizzo, of Davis, and sculptor Cathi Newlin, of Sacramento. Both artists have a light-hearted, playful take on artmaking that leads them to explore imagery full of fantasy, surrealism, or comedic exaggeration.
Folk musicians are invited to bring their acoustic instruments & play together informally during this jam session at Wyatt Deck. All skill-levels welcome. Noon-1p. Free
ODD FELLOWS HALL. DLMC presents MILLY (L.A.) and Teethe (Dallas, TX) with special guest Fitting (Sacramento). All ages. Doors 7p, Show 7:30p. Etix $15, Door $20
DAVIS SENIOR CENTER. Weekly gathering for artists of all skill levels. Lead by volunteer teachers. 9a. Free
ONLINE. A hybrid event with four days of virtual workshops followed by state-wide in-person gatherings. Admission is on a sliding-scale & provides access to all events. Sun-Wed 8:30a–6p, Thurs 8:30 a–3p, Fri 10a–2p. $11.18–$204.79
INTERNATIONAL HOUSE. Meetings providing support for multilingual & multicultural families including English learners adjusting to life in Davis. Open to anyone interested in sharing in the mission of our group. Meets every 1st & 3rd Friday. 10:15a–11:45a.
SENIOR CENTER. Bring a friend & join every Friday in the Game Room to watch a free movie on a beautiful large screen TV, while enjoying light refreshments. Call or check the website for titles. 12:30p. Free
SENIOR CTR. Fun & friendly setting with an experienced group of volunteers. Lessons are progressive & students are encouraged to attend as many dates as they can. (Mah Jongg is played every Monday at 12p. in the Game Room.) Lessons on Fridays thru March 3, 1p–3p. Free
STEPHENS DAVIS BRANCH LIBRARY. Read to a therapy dog! For ages 5-12, in the Children’s Activity Room. Sign up for a 10-minute reading slot at the Children’s Desk on the afternoon of the program, no prior registration. 3p–4:30p.
MAIN THEATER, WRIGHT HALL. An immersive theatre work inspired by (co-director) Vita Tzykun’s experience as a Ukrainian refugee. Explores subjects of home; belonging; heritage, language & cultural identity; stability & chaos; separation; grief; & hope. Showings from 6:30p–7:30p, & 8:30p–9:30p. $4–$8
WOODLAND OPERA HOUSE. Set in the French capital in the wake of World War II, An American in Paris tells the romantic story of a young American soldier, a beautiful French girl & an indomitable European city—each yearning for a new beginning in the aftermath of international conflict. Inspired by the Academy-Award winning 1951 film, the new stage musical features a ravishing score by George & Ira Gershwin & incredible dance sequences. The show’s timeless musical numbers include, “I Got Rhythm,” “The Man I Love,” “Shall We Dance,” & more. Fri & Sat 7:30p, Sun 2p. $9–$30
MONDAVI CTR. Tchaikovsky’s musical masterpiece with more contemporary sounds, the company refashions & deepens the love story against a backdrop of family conflict. Magnificent dancers, stunning costumes & a classic story combine to elevate this mythical classic. 2p. $15–$79
YOLO BYPASS WILDLIFE AREA. An opportunity to enhance your photographic skills, lead by renowned photographer Lewis Kemper. A hybrid event with a virtual educational workshop on the 2nd, followed by a photography day trip on the 4th. Virtual 7p–8:30p. In-person 2:30–6:30p. $175
MAIN THEATER, WRIGHT HALL. An immersive theatre work inspired by (co-director) Vita Tzykun’s experience as a Ukrainian refugee. Explores subjects of home; belonging; heritage, language & cultural identity; stability & chaos; separation; grief; & hope. Showings from 6:30p–7:30p, & 8:30p–9:30p. $4–$8
DAVIS MUSICAL THEATRE COMPANY. Set sail with this classic comedy that boasts one of the most famous patter songs in musical theatre history. $20.
WOODLAND OPERA HOUSE. Set in the French capital in the wake of World War II, An American in Paris tells the romantic story of a young American soldier, a beautiful French girl & an indomitable European city—each yearning for a new beginning in the aftermath of international conflict. Inspired by the Academy-Award winning 1951 film, the new stage musical features a ravishing score by George & Ira Gershwin & incredible dance sequences. The show’s timeless musical numbers include, “I Got Rhythm,” “The Man I Love,” “Shall We Dance,” & more. Fri & Sat 7:30p, Sun 2p. $9–$30
JOHN NATSOULAS GALLERY. Celebrating the new exhibition, “Women of Northern California: Making Meaning for Yesterday, Today, & Tomorrow.” Enjoy a night honoring seven decades of art by Northern California’s most notable women artists with refreshments & a performance by featured artist, Allison Fall. 7p–9p.
MAIN THEATER, WRIGHT HALL. An immersive theatre work inspired by (co-director) Vita Tzykun’s experience as a Ukrainian refugee. Explores subjects of home; belonging; heritage, language & cultural identity; stability & chaos; separation; grief; & hope. Showings from 6:30p–7:30p, & 8:30p–9:30p. $4–$8
Visit the market each Wed (3–6p) and Sat (8a–1p) to purchase local produce and artisan goods.
CITY OF DAVIS WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT. Monthly tours local wetlands appropriate for all levels of outdoor enthusiasts and birders. Driving tours on gravel roads with several stops & an occasional, optional short walk. Pets are not allowed. Registration req. 3p–5p. Sugg don $10
UNIVERSITY CREDIT UNION. UC Davis Men’s Basketball take on Long Beach State. Tickets available online. 1p. $7–$22
